Key Information at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Theatres | Sujata and Sanjota Cinemas, Hubballi |
| Years of Operation | Sujata: 1975 – 2020, Sanjota: 1977 – 2020 |
| Seating Capacity | Sujata: 1,100 seats, Sanjota: 625 seats |
| Owners | Sooji Family (DN Sooji, Rahul Sooji, Amar Sooji) |
| Specialization | Exclusively screened Kannada films (with rare exceptions) |
| Notable Films | Akash, Arasu, Milana, and 16 of Puneeth Rajkumar’s 20 films |
| Closure Reason | Competition from multiplexes, TV, smartphones, and COVID-19 lockdown |
| Future Plans | Demolition underway; potential commercial complex or mall with a multiplex |
A Legacy Crushed: The End of Sujata and Sanjota
For 45 years, Sujata and Sanjota theatres stood as pillars of Kannada cinema in Hubballi, nurturing a love for regional films and creating unforgettable memories for generations. Today, they are being reduced to rubble. The demolition of these iconic theatres isn’t just the end of two buildings—it’s the erasure of a cultural landmark that defined North Karnataka’s cinematic identity.
This isn’t just a story of closure. It’s a story of neglect, poor decisions, and a heartbreaking failure to adapt. It’s a story that should make you angry. It’s a story that should make you cry.
The Glory Days: A Legacy Worth Remembering
Sujata and Sanjota weren’t just theatres—they were institutions. Established in 1975 and 1977, these twin cinemas became the heartbeat of Kannada cinema in Hubballi.
- Exclusive Commitment to Kannada Cinema: The Sooji family’s unwavering dedication to regional films was unparalleled. Out of thousands of screenings, only one English film and three Hindi films ever graced their screens.
- Launchpad for Legends: From Dr. Rajkumar to Puneeth Rajkumar, these theatres showcased the works of Kannada cinema’s greatest stars.
- 100-Day Runs: Films like Akash, Arasu, and Milana celebrated 100-day runs here, a testament to their popularity.
- Cultural Hub: Audiences from Gadag, Haveri, Bagalkot, and beyond flocked to these theatres, often arriving in tractors and bullock carts, turning movie screenings into festivals.
The Downfall: A Tragedy of Neglect
While the glory days were magical, the downfall was nothing short of tragic. Over the past 10-15 years, Sujata and Sanjota became shadows of their former selves.
- Poor Maintenance: The theatres reeked of cigarette smoke and gutka, a far cry from the family-friendly venues they once were.
- Lack of Modernization: While multiplexes sprang up with plush seats and Dolby sound, Sujata and Sanjota remained stuck in the past.
- Failed Adaptations: Hosting Kannada dramas was a noble effort, but poor marketing meant only limited crowds from surrounding villages showed up.
- Reduced Shows: From four shows a day to just two, the theatres were already on life support before the COVID-19 lockdown delivered the final blow.
The Final Nail in the Coffin: COVID-19 and Beyond
The pandemic didn’t just close Sujata and Sanjota—it exposed their vulnerabilities.
- Lockdown Closure: The theatres shut down during the lockdown and never reopened.
- Failed Revival Attempts: Despite intentions to reopen, dwindling audiences made it impossible.
- Demolition: Now, the theatres are being demolished, their legacy reduced to dust.
A Betrayal of Values
The Sooji family’s commitment to Kannada cinema was admirable, but their failure to adapt was catastrophic.
- Missed Opportunities: With prime location and ample parking, these theatres could have been modernized and saved.
- Lack of Vision: While multiplexes thrived, Sujata and Sanjota clung to outdated strategies.
- Heartbreaking Irony: The very values that made them unique—their dedication to regional cinema—became their downfall.
A Personal Goodbye
For many, Sujata and Sanjota weren’t just theatres—they were a part of life.
My First Movie: For me, it was Dr. Rajkumar’s Akasmika in 1993.
My Last Movie: It was KGF, a fitting yet heartbreaking finale.
A Song of Farewell: As the theatres fall, a song from Akasmika echoes in our hearts: “Agumbeya Prema Sanjeya, Mareyalaare Naanu Yendigu”
The Future: A Betrayal of Legacy
The land where Sujata and Sanjota once stood may become a commercial complex or a mall. While there’s talk of a multiplex continuing the Kannada cinema legacy, it will never be the same.
- A Cultural Void: The loss of Sujata and Sanjota is a loss of Kannada cinema’s soul.
- A Warning: This is what happens when we fail to preserve our cultural landmarks.
Goodbye Sujata. Goodbye Sanjota.
These theatres were more than just buildings—they were memories, emotions, and a legacy. Their demolition isn’t just the end of an era; it’s a slap in the face of everyone who loved them.
Goodbye, Sujata.
Goodbye, Sanjota.
You deserved better.
You will be missed.
